Schengen Area Countries to Require Travel Clearances for Visa Exempt Travelers as of January 2021

Commencing January 1, 2021, visa-exempt travelers to Schengen area countries, including U.S. citizens, will be required to obtain a European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) clearance prior to visiting these countries. There are currently 26 Schengen countries in Europe that will require an ETIAS clearance, and four additional countries, Romania, Bulgaria, Croatia and Cyprus, are expected to join the area soon. Notably, the United Kingdom and Ireland are not part of the Schengen area.

Currently, U.S. citizens may travel to the Schengen area for a maximum stay of 90 days within a six month period without a visa. As of January 1, 2021, while a visa will not be required, U.S. citizens will need to register online for an ETIAS clearance. Applicants will need a passport valid for three months beyond the period of intended stay, a credit or debit card to pay the government filing fee of 7 euros, and an email account to receive the ETIAS confirmation. The ETIAS clearance will be valid for three years.

ETIAS is expected to assist European immigration and customs officials in pre-screening all travelers to improve security measures in the Schengen area.

Gibney will continue to monitor this program and provide updates as they become available. If you have any questions regarding this alert, please contact your designated Gibney representative, or email info@gibney.com.

This article is provided as general information for clients and friends of Gibney, Anthony & Flaherty, LLP. It does not constitute, and should not be construed as, legal advice. The contents of this article may be considered attorney advertising in some states.